The forward has enjoyed a new lease of life this season under Leonardo, and after chipping in with 15 goals and 16 assists, City boss Roberto Mancini may just be tempted to gamble on the mercurial Brazilian if he becomes available.

“I don’t know what will happen,” said Ronaldinho. “I would like to stay, but the most important thing is to be happy.

“To convince me to stay there needs to be clarity from those around me. I need to know how we will start next season.”